Dental Sealants

How Do Sealants Work?

Imagine dental sealants as protective shields for your teeth. Similar to how a raincoat shields you from getting wet in a storm, sealants shield your teeth from harmful food particles and bacteria that lead to cavities. By creating a barrier, sealants stop acids from damaging your teeth, ensuring they stay strong and healthy.

Who can get sealants?

Dental sealants are beneficial for both children and adults, with the most effective results seen when applied early. The first molars usually appear around age 6, followed by the second molars around age 12. By applying sealants as soon as these teeth emerge, you can prevent cavities from forming and save time and money in the future. Consult with us to see if sealants are a suitable option for you and your family.

How are sealants applied?

Getting dental sealants is a fast and painless process. First, we clean and dry your tooth, then apply an acidic gel to roughen the surface for better bonding with the sealant. After rinsing off the gel and drying the tooth again, we apply the sealant to the grooves and use a special blue light to harden it.

Can sealants be placed over cavities?

Sealants can be applied to areas of early decay to prevent additional damage. Your dentist can monitor the tooth to ensure the clear sealant is effectively protecting it.

Are there any side effects?

Aside from potential allergies, there are no known side effects associated with dental sealants.

Is there BPA in sealants?

Dental sealants do contain a small amount of BPA, but it is not enough to cause harm. In fact, you are exposed to more BPA from everyday activities such as handling receipts, using cosmetics, or coming into contact with dust.

How long do sealants last?

Sealants usually remain effective for multiple years before requiring reapplication. We will evaluate the status of your sealants during your routine dental appointments and reapply them as needed.